Ex vivo formation of blood vessels

Abstract

Vascular bypass grafts represent a well-grounded technological advance in the new millennium, this being related to the high prevalence of atherosclerosis and the ensuing treatment of myocardial infarction [1]. However, more recently a paradigm shift has occurred casting the subject of vascular tissue engineering in new light. The development of cardiovascular devices both for high- and low-flow scenarios in the form of functional vascular prostheses has made this possible. While the patency rates of highflow vessels [2], such as polyethylene terephthalate (Dacron) and expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) grafts following prolonged clinical use are acceptable, these figures are less satisfactory at lower flow rates [3]. Given the limitations with synthetic materials alone, a biological or biohybrid vascular prosthesis could provide us with the ideal blood vessel substitute. © 2009 Springer Berlin Heidelberg.